Sears 917.25559 - Manual (Page 2)

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SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers
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IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS,
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT !N SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH,
GENERAL OPERATION
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual
and on the machine before starting.
Only allow responsible aduits, who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate the machine.
Cleartheareaofobjectssuchas rocks,toys,wire,etc., which
could be picked up and thrown by the blade.
Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop
machine if anyone enters the area.
Never carry passengers. ■
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always
took down and behind before and while backing.
Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point
if at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the
entire grass catcher or the guard in place.
Slow down before turning.
Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off
blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys
before dismounting.
Turn off blades when not mowing.
Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogglng
chute.
Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
Do not operate the machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a
trailer or truck.
11. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to ioss-of-control and tipover
accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes
require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel
uneasy on it, do not mow it.
DO;
Mow up and down slopes, not across.
Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the machine.
Tall grass can hide obstacles.
Use slow speed. Choose a tow gear so that you will not have
to stop or shift while on the slope.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel weights
or counterweights to improve stability.
Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments.
These can change the stability of the machine.
Keep all movement on the slopes s/owand gradual. Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direction.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction,
disengage the blades and proceed slowly
straight dovjn the
slope.
DO NOT:
• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly
and gradually downhill, if possible.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The
mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of
a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause
sliding.
• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the
ground.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to ths
presence of chiidren. Children are often attracted to the machine
and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain
where you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful
care of another responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
» Before and when backing, look behind and down for smali
children.
• Never carry chiidren. They may fall off and be seriously
injured or interfere with the safe machine operation.
• Never allow children to operate the machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They
are flammable and vapors are explosive,
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- Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not
smoke.
- Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, such as a water heater.
• Never run a machine inside a closed area.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight
and keep equipment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regulariy.
• Keep machinefree of grass, leaves, orotherdebris build-up.
Clean oil or fuel spillage. Aiiow machine to coo! before
storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.
Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
" Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.
• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage,
and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow
objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and
replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when nec­
essary.
“ Mower blades are Sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or
wear gfoves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as
required.
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Look for this symbol to point out impor­
tant safety precautions. !t means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
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CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
piy g wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug In order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting,
adjusting or making
repairs.